If your parent is diagnosed with dementia or a related condition, it often becomes necessary to explore alternative care solutions, including assisted living. A few tips on how to move a parent with dementia to assisted living include:
- Recognizing it’s time for a change in care
- Including the family in discussions
- Finding a suitable community
- Preparing for the move
- Helping your parent settle in
Navigating the complications of relocating a loved one to senior living can be overwhelming and emotionally charged. But with thorough planning and considering the things we’ll discuss below, the transition can become a proactive step in ensuring their safety and overall well-being.
Remember that memory care could benefit a loved one with dementia instead of assisted living. It ultimately depends on your parent’s current stage and symptoms.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living communities assist with daily activities, health monitoring, and social interaction for older adults who may require help but don’t need continuous round-the-clock medical care. These communities often offer tailored care plans and services to aid older adults in retaining their independence while getting the assistance they need.
Signs It May Be Time for a Change in Care
It’s vital to recognize clues that suggest it might be time for a loved one to move into an assisted living community. Signs to watch out for include:
- Frequent forgetfulness
- Difficulty in carrying out everyday tasks
What Is Memory Care?
Many assisted living communities also offer memory care programs. Memory care is ultimately a form of specialized assisted living that caters to people with dementia or other memory-related conditions.
Memory care provides a safe and secure setting with specially trained teams who understand the particular needs and challenges associated with memory loss.
Memory care communities typically offer structured programs, activities, and therapies to encourage cognitive functioning, improve residents’ quality of life, and provide a feeling of purpose for older adults with dementia.
How to Move a Loved One with Dementia to Memory Care
Choosing to move a loved one with dementia to memory care is a big decision that requires planning. Each family has a unique dynamic, but the following considerations should guide the next steps you and your loved one can take.
Include Family in Discussions
Moving a loved one with dementia to memory care necessitates open communication within the family. Organize family meetings to explore the options, voice concerns, and make a mutual decision. Exercise patience and understanding during these discussions, as emotions may be heightened.
Find a Suitable Memory Care Community
While searching for a community for your parent, consider the following:
- Safety measures: Including secure environments that prevent wandering and have emergency response systems.
- Staff-to-resident ratio: A lower ratio implies more personalized attention and care.
- Activities and programs: Verify that they offer services and activities tuned to cognitive abilities and interests.
- Ask questions and assess the environment: When touring a community, assess cleanliness and observe staff interactions with residents.
Prepare for the Move
Preparing a loved one for the move can be a sensitive task. Gradually bring up the topic by discussing the benefits of assisted living or memory care. Involve them in decision-making as far as feasible and assure them of their safety in a nurturing environment.
When packing your loved one’s possessions, include familiar items that provide comfort and a sense of home. Tag belongings clearly to prevent misunderstandings. Create a checklist to ensure all necessary items are packed, like clothing, toiletries, medications, and personal memorabilia.
Keep the packing process simple and organized to avoid overwhelming your loved one. Moving can be an emotional experience for the loved one and the family. On the moving day, employ professional movers if necessary, and consider the move’s timing to avoid rush hours.
Provide consistent emotional support to your loved one by being present, hearing their worries, and offering comfort. Urge other family members to get involved and extend their support as well.
Help Your Parent Settle In
Assisting a loved one in adapting to their new environment requires patience and motivation. Visit frequently in the initial weeks to provide reassurance and help them adjust. Personalize their living area with familiar items to make it homely.
Maintaining family connections is crucial for your loved one’s emotional well-being. Arrange for regular visits, calls, and video chats. Encourage other family members and friends to visit to foster a supportive community around your loved one.
Support Every Step of the Way
Relocating a loved one with dementia to assisted living or memory care is a significant decision that requires time, careful thought, and planning. By recognizing the signs, finding the right community, preparing for the move, and offering continued support, you can make this transition as seamless as possible for your parent.Remember, you are not alone on this journey. If you need additional assistance or advice, contact Inspired Living at Lakewood Ranch for support before, during, and after the transition. Contact us to schedule a visit if you want to explore how our compassionate team can support your loved one.
